Live United Through Employment Services

For 28 years, Columbus House has been dedicated to their mission: To serve people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless by providing shelter and housing and by fostering their personal growth and independence. For two years now, I have been very proud to be a part of their vision. Throughout these past two years, I have seen many faces coming in and out of the shelter. One thing that I can say that has been pretty consistent across the board is our individuals’ need of employment. “I am looking for a job. Can someone help me with that?” or “If I can just find a job, I will be able to get on my feet.” These are phrases we hear very often around here. That is why we are all overjoyed about UWGNH funding our Employment Services Program for a 2^nd year!

We all know that employment is an important part of everyone’s livelihood, and the grant for our Employment Specialist, Carl Reynolds, is having a huge impact on the individuals we serve. There is a buzz in the air about our Employment Services Program. Many individuals at Columbus House and Immanuel Baptist Shelter (with whom we collaborate under the employment services program) are asking to be connected to Carl in order to make their way out of the shelter. Carl meets with these individuals and assists them with resume building and interviewing skills, as well as accompanying them on job searches. He is an extra support to all that he serves. He believes in his work and does it with love and passion. He builds strong relationships with employers and consumers; the type of relationships that show hope and possibilities.

Since July 2010, more than half of the people Carl has served have moved out of the emergency shelter into transitional housing, supportive housing, or their own room or apartment. One gentleman who had been unemployed for 8 years and has a criminal record is now working in the food services industry.

“I could not have done it without this program. You have gone above and beyond,” he said. We were also able to connect him with transportation to and from work. He has been working for two months and is now in the process of moving out of the shelter. Another gentleman that is now employed as a quality controller said, “I didn’t believe I could find a job so soon.” This gentleman was connected to employment shortly after being released from incarceration. Talk about Live United!! With UWGNH, we are able to help people get their lives back on track!